P>BRATISLAVASlovak RepublicIAAF President Primo Nebiolo today held extended talks with Slovak Prime Minister Vladimir Meclar. Mr Meclar assured Dr Nebiolo of his government's firm commitment to the growth of sports in the Slovak Republic and discussed plans for the creation of a number of specialist schools destined to produced athletes fit for the highest level of competition.

Mr Meclar also asked Dr Nebiolo for his support of the Slovak bid to host the 2006 Winter Olympics. Reminded by Dr Nebiolo of the 1999 World University Winter Games, which will take place in the Republic, Mr Meclar stressed his government's backing for the event and stated that they would make an excellent showcase for his country's Olympic bid.

Following the meeting, Dr Nebiolo, who was accompanied by the President of the Slovak Olympic Committee and IOC member, Mr Vladimir Cernusak, left Bratislava for Kosice to attend Saturday's IAAF/VSZ World Half Marathon Championships.

Saturday's stars will include the defending world champion Stefano Baldini (ITA) and the holder of the fastest mark in the event, Moses Tanui (KEN), Alejandro Gomez (ESP) and Hendrick Ramaala of South Africa, whilst the women's event is likely to be animated by Tegla Loroupe (KEN) - winner of both the New York and Rotterdam Marathons - and Elana Meyer of South Africa, victorious in the 1994 World Half Marathon Championships.